Thursday, March 19, 2026

Globe Strengthens Mobile Network Across Tarlac to Keep Communities Connected

Tarlac, the heart of Central Luzon, is rapidly growing with expanding schools, thriving businesses, and increasing tourism - driving a greater need for reliable mobile connectivity in the province. Residents, enterprises, and visitors are relying more on mobile services for work, learning, and entertainment, making fast and stable internet essential for everyday life.

The province is seeing significant infrastructure and development projects that are shaping its economic landscape. Major initiatives include the Capas-Botolan Road, a 68-kilometer corridor expected to cut travel time between Tarlac and Zambales from three hours to just over an hour by 2025. In Tarlac City, large-scale industrial estates and mixed-use townships are under development, alongside new manufacturing facilities and modern residential-commercial communities. Ongoing investments in Tarlac State University further enhance educational infrastructure, with laboratory refurbishments and building expansions supporting the next generation of talent.

To address this demand, Globe is accelerating network upgrades across the province in 2025 and 2026. Additional LTE and 5G sites are being deployed to deliver faster speeds and more consistent mobile experiences throughout Tarlac. The new build and expansion improve coverage and capacity in key municipalities, including Tarlac City, Capas, Concepcion, Gerona, Victoria, Paniqui, Mayantoc, San Jose, Moncada, Santa Ignacia, La Paz, Camiling, Bamban, San Clemente, Pura, San Manuel, Ramos, and Anao. Residents can now enjoy smoother browsing, clearer calls, and quicker uploads and downloads, enabling seamless connectivity for work, school, and leisure activities.

Joel Agustin, Head of Service Planning and Engineering at Globe, highlighted the importance of the upgrades. He said that Tarlac blends cultural heritage with modern business and lifestyle opportunities, and Globe is committed to providing seamless connectivity for everyone, whether at work, in school, or exploring the province’s tourism destinations. The new network strengthens coverage and delivers fast, reliable mobile experiences for both residents and visitors.

The enhanced network also allows customers to take full advantage of Globe’s mobile offers. Globe users can enjoy GO+99 and UNLI 5G 50, while TM subscribers can access TM EasySURF50 5G for affordable, dependable connectivity. These offers support streaming, online learning, digital entrepreneurship, and daily communication, making mobile services more accessible and convenient.

Local businesses and institutions also benefit from the network expansion. Companies gain operational efficiency, schools gain better support for digital learning, and tourists experience smoother online access for navigation, bookings, and content sharing. Globe’s continued investments are recognized by independent industry analysis. The company maintains its title as the Most Consistent Network in the Philippines according to Ookla, reflecting the reliability subscribers experience nationwide.

As Tarlac develops into a hub for commerce and tourism, Globe’s network upgrades ensure communities remain digitally empowered. By combining robust infrastructure with accessible mobile services, Globe supports the province’s progress and helps residents stay connected in an increasingly digital world.

For more information about Globe, visit www.globe.com.ph.

Bounty Strengthens Operational Continuity at VITRO Santa Rosa

VITRO Inc., the data center arm of PLDT Inc., part of PLDT Enterprise, the Group's corporate business arm, has announced its partnership with Bounty Fresh Group Holdings, Inc., to strengthen the company’s digital backbone and future-proof its operations through VITRO Santa Rosa’s robust data center facility.

As one of the country’s leading fully integrated poultry operators—spanning rearing, processing, and nationwide distribution—Bounty operates in a highly dynamic, time-sensitive environment where operational continuity is critical, with fully integrated systems connecting farms, plants, and distribution channels. The company relies on real-time data visibility to manage its supply chain, production, and inventory.

The comprehensive suite of solutions provided by PLDT Enterprise and VITRO is designed to serve the entire Bounty Fresh Group ecosystem. This digital integration ensures seamless operational synergy across all subsidiaries and brands, including Chooks-to-Go, Bounty Plus, and its various poultry and agribusiness units, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to a unified and resilient supply chain.

Leaders from Bounty Fresh Group, VITRO Inc., and PLDT Enterprise underscored the importance of resilient digital infrastructure in supporting uninterrupted operations and long-term business growth.

“As our organization continues to grow, investing in resilient and future-ready digital infrastructure is essential. Our supply chain must never stop, and real-time visibility across our operations is critical to maintaining efficiency and quality,”
said Atty. Kenneth Cheng, President and CEO of Bounty Fresh Group Holdings, Inc, “Our partnership with VITRO strengthens our ability to safeguard critical systems while giving us the flexibility to scale and innovate. This is a strategic investment in the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of our business.”

Warren Chase Uy, Chief Information Officer of Bounty Fresh Group Holdings, Inc., emphasized the connectivity and efficiency of the collaboration: “The complexity of our nationwide operations requires a digital backbone that is both robust and agile. Partnering with VITRO and PLDT Enterprise allows us to centralize our critical data in a facility that guarantees maximum uptime and carrier-neutral connectivity. This strategic move optimizes our internal workflows and strengthens our end-to-end visibility, ensuring that our high standards are maintained from the farm all the way to the Filipino home.

Victor S. Genuino, President and CEO of ePLDT and VITRO Inc., added: “We deeply value the trust that Bounty has placed in VITRO. For enterprises operating at this scale, operational resilience is foundational to sustained growth. Our role goes beyond infrastructure — we provide the secure, scalable digital ecosystem that enables industry leaders to innovate, expand, and operate without disruption. We are proud to support Bounty as they accelerate their next phase of growth.”

“Our partnership with Bounty goes beyond providing state-of-the-art colocation facilities. It reflects PLDT Enterprise’s commitment to supporting the company’s evolving digital needs through a comprehensive suite of end-to-end solutions,” said Vic Y. Tria, PLDT Enterprise FVP and Head of Enterprise Domestic Business and SME. “To power its nationwide operations, we are delivering reliable connectivity that enables seamless workflows and uninterrupted business operations, while Smart Bizload and Smart Postpaid solutions ensure their teams stay connected anytime, anywhere. Altogether, these solutions reflect years of partnership built on trust and a shared vision of enabling a more digitally empowered business landscape.”

As the poultry industry prepares for substantial growth in the coming decade, Bounty continues to invest in smart farming technologies, including AI-powered camera systems to help predict optimal harvest weight, alongside enhanced livestock healthcare monitoring, strengthened security, and compliance measures. These innovations further underscore the importance of a resilient data center facility to protect the company’s mission-critical data from natural disasters and other unforeseen risks.

By colocating its disaster recovery infrastructure in VITRO Santa Rosa, Bounty ensures its critical systems are housed in a purpose-built, AI-ready hyperscale data center designed for scalability, resilience, and security. The facility’s redundant power systems, multi-layer physical security, and carrier-neutral ecosystem safeguard workloads while providing the flexibility to scale in line with business expansion.

As enterprises prioritize business continuity and digital transformation, VITRO Santa Rosa continues to empower industry leaders with secure, resilient, and future-ready infrastructure.

LG Introduces PuriCare™ AeroMini: Compact, Powerful, and Smart Air Purification for Modern Living

LG Electronics has unveiled its latest innovation in home air care—the LG PuriCare™ AeroMini, a compact yet powerful air purifier designed to fit seamlessly into today’s dynamic living environments. With its sleek design, advanced purification technology, and smart connectivity features, the AeroMini is positioned as a versatile solution for maintaining cleaner, healthier indoor air.

One of the standout features of the LG PuriCare™ AeroMini is its 360-degree air purification capability. Unlike traditional air purifiers that focus on a single direction, the AeroMini draws in air from all angles, ensuring comprehensive coverage regardless of where it is placed. This makes it ideal for various spaces such as bedrooms, home offices, or even small apartments where flexibility is essential.

Despite its compact size, the AeroMini delivers impressive performance. It is certified to remove 99.999 percent of ultra-fine dust, including particles that are often invisible to the naked eye but can significantly impact health. This level of filtration is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies, respiratory sensitivities, or those simply looking to improve their indoor air quality.

Another key advantage of the AeroMini is its quiet operation. Running at just 26 decibels, it operates at a whisper-quiet level, making it suitable for use during sleep or in environments that require minimal noise, such as study areas or workspaces. Users can enjoy cleaner air without any disruptive background sound.

The AeroMini also integrates seamlessly with modern smart home ecosystems through the LG ThinQ™ app. This allows users to monitor air quality, adjust settings, and control the device remotely from their smartphones. The added convenience of smart control ensures that users can manage their air purification needs anytime, anywhere.

In addition to its technical capabilities, LG has emphasized personalization with the AeroMini. The device can be customized with a variety of stylish lifestyle accessories, allowing users to match it with their interior design preferences while maintaining functionality.

Overall, the LG PuriCare™ AeroMini combines efficiency, convenience, and style in a compact form, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a smart and adaptable air purification solution.

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

SHDA Golf Cup 2026 Swings Into Its 4th Edition with Sportsmanship and Collaboration Driving Developments Forward

Manila, Philippines — The Subdivision and Housing Developers Association (SHDA) is bringing together key players in the country’s housing sector for the 4th SHDA Golf Cup, set on March 26, 2026 at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club in Mandaluyong City, where developers, investors, financial institutions, and industry partners will connect through a day of sportsmanship and collaboration.

Entering its fourth year, the SHDA Golf Cup has evolved into more than a tournament. It has become an annual gathering where leaders from across the housing ecosystem come together to exchange insights on emerging industry developments and strengthen relationships that support the housing sector's continued growth.

Anchored on the theme “Driving Developments Forward,” the event reflects how the strategy, focus, and discipline required on the golf course mirror the planning and long-term vision behind successful housing developments. It also underscores innovation and effective collaboration in advancing housing opportunities for Filipino families.

“Just as players approach the course with focus and foresight, real estate stakeholders advance projects through strategic planning and adaptability,” said SHDA Chairman Engr. Francis Richmond Villegas. “The SHDA Golf Cup goes beyond competition, serving as a symbol of progress and shared purpose to lead the industry forward.”

Scoring System and Competitive Edge

This year, the tournament will continue with a modified Double Peoria scoring system, evaluating performance across a broader set of holes to create a more balanced and competitive experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Participants will compete for a range of awards and prizes that recognize both overall performance and exceptional skills on the course. Special awards will be given to the Lowest Net Overall Champion, Lowest Gross Champions, First Runners-Up, and Second Runners-Up for Classes A, B, and C.

Adding to the excitement, fun hole challenges will also take place, such as Hole-in-One, Nearest to the Pin, Longest Drive, Most Accurate Drive, and Longest Putt, providing variety throughout the event.

Moreover, SHDA National President Mr. Kerwin Padua noted that the format continues to make the tournament accessible for participants across different playing levels.

“With the scoring system and awards, we continue to make the Golf Cup engaging and fair for all participants. It’s a chance to enjoy the game while bringing together people who shape the housing sector in a relaxed and collaborative setting.”

“We look forward to seeing participants from across the industry come together and enjoy the camaraderie that the tournament always brings,” Padua added.

Registration and Participation

The SHDA Golf Cup welcomes both golf enthusiasts and housing industry professionals. Full-package registration at ₱9,500 includes green fees, caddie service, shared golf cart, breakfast, lunch, grand raffle entry, and giveaways. Non-golfing participants can join the luncheon and awards program for ₱4,500, which also includes entry to the grand raffle.

Key figures from the real estate industry, relevant housing government agencies, and partner organizations are set to grace the ceremonial tee-off, underscoring the partnerships and collaboration that drive the broader housing sector.

The SHDA Golf Cup 2026 is supported by major partners and sponsors, including Avida Land Corporation, NOAH Business Applications/ Forecasting and Planning Technologies, Cathay Land, Inc., Malaya Business Insight, 8990 Housing Development Corporation, Manila Bulletin Citihomes Builders and Development, Inc., Phinma Property Holdings Corporation, SM Development Corporation, Wee Community Developers, Inc., China Banking Corporation, The Manila Times, WheninManila.com, Axeia Development Corporation, Homemark, Inc., Lynville Land Development Corporation, P.A. Alvarez Properties and Development Corp., Pontefino Hotel, Prominence Properties, Inc., Property Company and Friends, Inc., Red Oak Properties, Inc., Davies Paints, Inc., Hafele Philippines, Inc., Hocheng Philippines Corp., Pacific Paint Boysen Philippines, Shera Building Solution Philippines Corporation, World Home Depot, Community Property Managers Group, Inc., Phinma Prism Property Development Corp., Snapp Ventures, Inc., and Philippine Guarantee Corporation.

Participants and industry professionals can now register for the tournament. For inquiries and sponsorships, contact SHDA Secretariat through email at shda.secretariat@gmail.com, phone at (02) 8856-1554 / 8893-4328 / 8721-8188, or by visiting https://shda.ph/shda-golf-cup-2026/.

As the SHDA Golf Cup returns for a new edition, its commitment remains to fostering collaboration, celebrating sportsmanship, and connecting key players in the real estate sector, strengthening relationships, and inspiring initiatives that propel the industry forward.

The Visionaries Shaping the Future of Arduino Innovation

The future of technology is being built today—and at the forefront of this movement are the brilliant minds driving Arduino innovation forward. On March 21, 2026, Asia Pacific College will host a gathering of industry leaders, educators, and innovators who are redefining how technology is created, understood, and applied in the real world.

This highly anticipated event brings together a powerhouse lineup of speakers and mentors, all united by a shared mission: to bridge the gap between complex technological concepts and accessible, creative solutions. From seasoned professionals to emerging talents, each speaker offers a unique perspective on how Arduino continues to empower innovation across industries.

On the main floor on the 12th level, attendees will hear from respected figures such as Mr. Earl Daniel Villanueva, founder of Evtech Research Group, and Cubicore, a LoRaWAN network operator shaping connectivity solutions. Academic leadership is also well represented, with Mr. Errol John Antonio, Chairperson of Computer Engineering at the University of the East – Manila, alongside Mr. Mark Christian O. Aringo, an educator and technologist known for his advocacy in occupational safety and health. Adding to the lineup are Mr. Jose IV Austria, National President of ICpEP se, Mr. Edgar Danielle Pagao, an electronics engineering technologist, and Mr. Justin Lemuel R. Esteban, a multimedia creator and founder of Just In Case Foundation & Media.

Meanwhile, the circuit floor on the 6th level highlights emerging innovators and technical experts. Speakers like Mr. Joshua Daniel Reyes, a BSIT student from PCU-DasmariƱas, and Mr. Rome Karl Daniela, a robotics and intelligent machine coach, represent the next generation of tech leaders. They are joined by Mr. Clifford Co, an industrial designer and mechatronics expert, who brings deep expertise in research and development.

On the 1st floor, workshop sessions led by Mr. Nicasio Nicklaus, Mr. Jomarc Baquiran, Mr. Danielle Luis Aquiatan, and Mr. Rommel Jay Gadil will provide hands-on learning experiences, allowing participants to translate ideas into tangible projects.

This event is more than just a conference—it is a platform where imagination meets execution. By bringing together diverse talents and perspectives, Arduino Day Philippines 2026 aims to inspire innovation, foster collaboration, and empower individuals to build the future through technology. 

Register now: https://tinyurl.com/adph2026-registration